Finnish government committed to removal of Palokki rapids in Heinävesi

The Finnish government remains committed to the removal of the Palokki rapids located in Heinävesi. Prime Minister Petteri Orpo stated this during his visit to the area on Monday. “Today, I am even more convinced that this project must be realized. The release of the rapids is economically significant for the region and something truly unique for nature,” Orpo said.

The Palokki rapids were dammed for electricity production in 1961, which impeded the migration of fish species such as lake trout and salmon. Discussions around the liberation of the rapids have been ongoing for years, but the most concrete step forward occurred just over a year ago when the issue was included in the government’s program.

The Palokki power plant is owned by North Karelia Electricity, which has announced its opposition to the dam’s removal. The company is owned by 17 municipalities in the region. Heinävesi has expressed support for the dam’s dismantling, while Joensuu considers the allocated €20 million in the government program wholly inadequate. A recent study indicated that the restoration of the rapids would cost approximately €50 million.

Orpo believes that cooperation will lead to successful liberation. “When considering the electricity production capacity, I believe a solution can be found that safeguards the financial interests of the owners while allowing the rapids to be freed,” he noted.

Palokki generates an average of 29.5 gigawatt-hours of electricity annually, contributing about 0.4 per mille of Finland’s total electricity production. For Orpo, who enjoys fly fishing targeting migratory fish in flowing waters, this project holds personal significance. He recognized the importance of Palokki a decade ago while serving as Minister of Agriculture and Forestry, stating, “It is crucial that we make decisions quickly on how to proceed.”